Demo derby competitor remembering Robinson
CHICORA — Kyle Robinson is no longer around to exude his infectious positive attitude, but the former Karns City High School student's memory is in no danger of fading away.
Robinson, who lived in Brady Township, Clarion County, was killed in an automobile accident last November. He was 17.
“He was on his way to the Butler (County) Vo-Tech,” said Robinson's mother, Casie. “The wreck happened in Bradys Bend Township in Armstrong County. He was pronounced dead within an hour of the crash, but I was told he probably died instantly from head trauma.
“He was a very big-hearted and caring person,” she added. “Since his death, so many people have told me that he was always there to lend an ear. I drive a school bus for the Karns City School District and every day, someone would come up and give me a hug. That helps me get by.”
Kyle's death was a heavy burden for his family and friends, Chicora resident Jake McElravy among them.
“When I got to the Vo-Tech, that's when I found out about what happened to Kyle,” said McElravy, 19. “My best friend was dead and I was broken.”
Though he battled through disbelief and deep sorrow, McElravy immediately began thinking of a way to honor his late friend.
“I knew I would be competing in the demolition derby at the Butler Farm Show (Friday),” said McElravy. “I decided to dedicate my car and my performance to Kyle.”
At that point, there was only one thing left to do.
“Jake called me about a month ago and asked my permission if he could do this for Kyle,” said Casie Robinson. “I was very honored that he did that. I thought it was a sweet gesture.”
“That meant a lot,” said McElravy. “I didn't want to do it if she didn't approve.”
Casie Robinson said her son was very active.“He loved exploring tunnels and caves in the area,” she said. “And he liked fixing and riding bikes. He was your typical 17-year old.“He loved his country,” she added. “He was already signed up to join the (U.S. Navy) and he couldn't wait to go.”Kyle and McElravy, who would have graduated together last spring, became friends five years ago.It wasn't long before McElravy recognized honorable qualities in Kyle.“He was always there to help people feel better if they were down,” said McElravy. “Kyle was all about other people, not himself.”Though McElravy has been involved in demolition derby events before, he will carry a heavy heart into Friday's show. His car will be black and orange, Kyle's favorite colors.“I finished second at the Farm Show last year,” said McElravy. “I always want to win, but it would mean a lot more to win this time.“You win money if you win your heat and then even more if you win the feature,” he added. “I'm giving any money I win to Kyle's mother.”“I think Kyle would be very excited about what Jake is doing,” Casie said. “I'm sure he would be there Friday if he was still here.”
